Deidre MacKenzie

About Me

My School’s Information

Name Of School

Province / Region

My Project's Information

Project Name

Project Discription

The vision was to restructure the playground to allow the children to have access to a variety of resources to enhance not only their physical growth and development but their thinking and problem solving skills as well. The jungle gyms, cycle track, sand play and water play areas are important resources because our children are constantly learning through play and consolidating concepts taught in class. The children will be responsible for growing and maintaining a vegetable garden to inculcate an interest in nature and develop their observation skills. The aim of this project was to ensure that all children are afforded opportunities, within our structured daily programme, to receive concrete, multi-sensory stimulation and exposure to many facets of learning.

What made you start this Project?

We cannot underestimate the value of aesthetic development in our children because the natural world is filled with beautiful sights, sounds, and textures; it is the perfect resource for developing an appreciation for natural beauty in young children. Physical play enhances a healthy body and mind. A well-equipped playground that is stimulating, functional and safe encourages imaginative play. Furthermore, it is an excellent place for pre-schoolers to practise and master their emerging physical and communication skills, learning number concepts as well as promoting sound social interactions with their peers. Technology, can never replace basic gross motor skills that young children to need develop.

What portion of the community have you impacted through your project?

Pre-schoolers currently attending our school, aged between 18 months to 6 years. The playground is utilised by Kgosi Foundation, which caters for underprivileged pre-school children in our community, when we are on school holidays.

What challenges have you faced with your project?

A lack of finances has been my greatest challenge. This has impacted our ability to acquire much needed resources.

How did you overcome those Challenges?

Having a vision of a school that will develop the whole child, whether in the class or on the playground. Perseverance, passion and dedication to promoting excellence in early childhood development have been the foundation to see this project through. Constant collaboration with the Senior Managers at the school to ensure that funding is procured for this project.

What have you achieved through your project?

The upgrade to the playground will fulfil the intended goals and aims of the project. Children will have access to quality education and parents will understand the value of our integrated approach to teaching the children in our care. Educators are can go beyond traditional classroom teaching practices and develop lesson plans that can integrate all subjects taught in our programme.